Abstract: An improved Raman microspectrometer system extends the optical reach and analysis range of an existing Raman microspectrometer to allow analysis and/or repair of an oversized sample. The improved Raman microspectrometer system includes an extender for extending the optical reach of the existing microspectrometer and a supplemental stage which extends the analysis range of the existing microspectrometer by providing travel capabilities for non-destructive analysis of an entire oversized sample. Such an arrangement decreases manufacturing costs associated with testing oversized samples such as mammography panels, enabling analysis and/or repair to be performed without destruction.

Abstract: A brachytherapy applicator for treatment of metastic lesions in a load bearing region is provided. The applicator comprises an elongate tube body having a proximal and a distal end and defining an open internal area. A fixation element located on an outer portion of the tube allows the applicator to be fixed in position in relation to a target region while delivering a dose of therapeutic radiation. The fixation element can fix the applicator to tissue and/or a stabilization element implanted within a patient. A source of radiation positioned within the elongate body, before, during, or after implantation of the applicator, provides the therapeutic radiation.

Abstract: A medical device and procedure for delivering a drug into a uterus are described. In one implementation, the medical device includes a first elongate member, a second elongate member and a stopper device. The first elongate member is configured for transcervical insertion into the uterus and includes a lumen extending therethrough. The second elongate member is positioned within said lumen and also includes a lumen therethrough. The second elongate member is positionable in a retracted or an extended position. A distal end of the second elongate member is configured to extend beyond a distal end of the first elongate member and penetrate uterine tissue when in the extended position. A proximal end of the second elongate member is configured to receive a drug for delivery through the lumen of the second elongate member. The stopper device controls movement of the second elongate member within the first elongate member.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation or coagulation of organs and other tissue includes a metallized fabric electrode array which is substantially absorbent and/or permeable to moisture and gases such as steam and conformable to the body cavity. The array includes conductive regions separated by insulated regions arranged to produce ablation to a predetermined depth. Following placement of the ablation device into contact with the tissue to be ablated, an RF generator is used to deliver RF energy to the conductive regions and to thereby induce current flow from the electrodes to tissue to be ablated. As the current heats the tissue, moisture (such as steam or liquid) leaves the tissue causing the tissue to dehydrate. Suction may be applied to facilitate moisture removal. The moisture permeability and/or absorbency of the electrode carrying member allows the moisture to leave the ablation site so as to prevent the moisture from providing a path of conductivity for the current.

Abstract: A cache memory system includes multiple cache levels arranged in a hierarchical fashion. A data item stored in a higher level cache level is also stored in all lower level caches. The most recent version of a data item is detected during an initial lookup of a higher level cache. The initial lookup of a higher level cache includes a comparison of address bits for the next lower level cache. Thus the most recent version of a data item is able to be detected without additional lookups to the lower level cache.

Abstract: A parity generator for multibit binary data in which only a subset of bits change at one time includes a circuit for determining whether the number of bits in the subset to be changed is odd or even. A toggle signal generator generates a toggle signal only if the number of bits to be changed is odd. A toggling circuit selectively changes the level of the parity bit in response to the toggle signal.